Helix

Halloween on the starbase Eltanin isn't so different from Earth. There's still costumes, parties, and tons of sweets. The view out the windows is a bit different, with the swirling clouds of the Helix Nebula watching over the festivities, but it's a time to have fun, stifle inhibition, and forget about the troubles of the universe. It's a time for far-flung friends to get together and let loose. Liam isn't sure what to expect from his first Halloween, but getting to dress up in a costume he's only seen in historical accounts is certainly a highlight. When he gets roped into helping with the kids' party, he gets to experience the holiday in ways he never expected. Everything looks different from a child's perspective, and that's a view he'll never see with his own eyes. Being a part of that childlike wonder opens his heart to possibilities he hasn't allowed himself to want. And not even the limitations of his place in human society can stifle his hope for the future. This is the first time Skylar has almost all of his friends in one place for Halloween and the excitement is overwhelming. Unfortunately, so is the noise, the crowded deck, and the discomfort of being stared at in his costume. As much as he wants to have fun with his friends, he also wants to escape from everything, and even his partner has a difficult time comforting him. It's the ones who love him, though, who won't give up on his happiness and help him get past his mental barriers. And it's that love which ignites his soul and lets him shine as bright as the cosmos. For Aitana, this Halloween is especially important because she gets to spend it with her friends on one of the nicest starbases she's ever seen. As a pilot who's not often stationary long enough to remember the name of where she is, she knows this is a rare luxury and she's not about to waste a second of the time she's been given. When her expectations are suddenly shattered by her own best friend, their conflicting priorities lead to an argument which could derail their plans. But their friends are always ready to help, and it's their acceptance which will guide them to understanding. It's one night with different meanings for them all. Whether it's looking to the future, overcoming the past, or navigating a labyrinthine present, each of them is searching for truth among the stars. Only by trusting each other and the ones who care for them will they find what their hearts are seeking and discover their place in the universe. PLEASE NOTE: This work may be read as a standalone story, but does contain references and mentions of events which have taken place throughout the main books of the series. For those who wish to not have any main book plot points spoiled, it is recommended to read the rest of the series first. This work is intended for a mature audience and contains mature content, including moderate profanity, sensuality, and mentions of panic and anxiety